Alphabetical Jazz Steps 3 (Chester Whitmore)

COURSE: blues-moves-family-tree

FOCUS: This lesson demonstrates a series of jazz dance steps in alphabetical order, taught by Chester Whitmore, with historical context and variations.

TIP & TRICKS:

• For Apple Jacks, use accent rhythms on the one count as preparatory movements.
• In the box step, start with the left foot forward, then right, back, and cross.
• For the cool breeze, glide into a grapevine strut and pop into it with music changes.
• In crazy legs, perform a double up step pattern with alternating legs.
• For the crossover, distinguish it from cross step by having legs cross in movement rather than going straight to destination.
• In the pec step, emulate a chicken with pointing movements, popularized by groups like the Jackson 5.

REMEMBER:

• Many jazz steps have historical origins, such as the black ball from the 1920s Charleston craze.
• Steps like the T-O-B break originate from theater circuits and tap dancing traditions.
• Variations of steps evolve with music eras, like the cool breeze adapting from 1950s to 1970s.
• Accent rhythms are key for preparatory movements in steps like Apple Jacks.
• Some steps, like the cakewalk, involve forward or backward movement with rhythmic hits.
• Steps can be seductive or expressive, such as fingertips in blues categories.